Skip Sizes

Skip sizes are commonly described in cubic yards. The right size depends on the type and volume of waste — and whether the waste is heavy or light. Here is an overview of common skip sizes and the types of project each may suit.

Exact sizes, weight limits and accepted materials vary. The information below is a general guide.

Different skip sizes including 4-yard, 6-yard and 8-yard builders skips lined up
4yard

4-Yard Mini Skip

Small clear-outs and lighter jobs

Common projects

Single room tidy-upSmall bathroom refresh wasteGarden hedge trimmingsMinor DIY debris

Approximate capacity

A compact skip for lighter domestic jobs — roughly 25–35 bin bags.

Waste considerations

Suitable for light household waste. Heavy rubble or soil should be discussed beforehand.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

6yard

6-Yard Midi Skip

Medium household projects

Common projects

Kitchen strip-outSingle room renovationMedium garden clearanceFlooring and carpet removal

Approximate capacity

A popular all-rounder for domestic work — roughly 45–60 bin bags.

Waste considerations

Handles mixed household and renovation waste. Heavy materials like soil can fill it quickly by weight.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

8yard

8-Yard Builders Skip

Larger clearances and renovations

Common projects

Full house clearanceKitchen or bathroom renovationBuilders wasteBulky furniture disposal

Approximate capacity

A common choice for trade and renovation work — roughly 60–80 bin bags.

Waste considerations

Good for heavier mixed waste. Heavy rubble or soil should be confirmed with us before loading.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

12yard

12-Yard Maxi Skip

Bulky lighter waste

Common projects

Large house clearanceCommercial refurbishmentLight bulky wasteLarge volume packaging

Approximate capacity

Designed for volume rather than heavy materials — roughly 90–120 bin bags.

Waste considerations

Not suitable for heavy waste like soil, rubble or concrete. Check weight limits with us.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

16yard

16-Yard Skip

Substantial bulky waste

Common projects

Large commercial clearancesShop fitting wasteBulky light materialsLarge renovation projects

Approximate capacity

A substantial skip for high-volume, lighter waste.

Waste considerations

Weight-restricted. Heavy waste should be discussed separately.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

20yard

20-Yard Container

Larger commercial or construction needs

Common projects

Commercial constructionIndustrial clearanceLarge-scale renovationHigh-volume light waste

Approximate capacity

The largest common container for major projects. May require specific access.

Waste considerations

May require specific access and arrangements. Not for heavy dense waste.

Heavy waste such as soil, rubble or concrete can fill a skip quickly by weight and may be subject to weight limits. Tell us before loading heavy materials.

Not Sure Which Size You Need?

Skip size guidance is only a starting point. The most useful thing you can do is describe your project and waste type when requesting a quote. We can then advise on the most suitable skip and whether any weight or waste restrictions apply.

Ready to arrange skip hire in Torbay?

Tell us what you're clearing, where the skip will go and when you need it. We'll confirm availability and clear pricing.